Reflection and reaction to today’s unfortunate news of Quessenberry’s cancer

David Quessenberry, far right, has the support of his family as he battles cancer. From left, father David Quessenberry Sr., brothers Paul (defensive lineman at Navy), Scott (offensive lineman at UCLA) and mother Maureen join him for a photo after the 2011 game between Navy and SJSU at Spartan Stadium. (Photo courtesy of Quessenberry family)

Honestly, just even going back and reading the headline on the story posted on our web site (linked above), I’m still rather shocked. I spoke with quite a few people today, including Quessenberry himself who was extremely gracious in texting me back that I was free to call him. In situations like this, I prefer to not be one to pry. But I’ve had a good relationship with Quessenberry practically since my first day on the beat and there’s not enough words I can say about his character.

He’s the type of guy that, last year during the Texans’ bye week, he attended SJSU’s game. I was walking toward the stadium from the parking lot, crossing past the locker room area, when I heard a loud voice yell, “Jimmy!” It was David tracking me down to come say hi. He’s that kind of person and I think when the day comes that he recovers and makes it back on the field, people will eventually see the type of player he is.

So many of the statements I heard today from people I talked to were similar.

From David Fales: “If there’s anybody who’s going to fight and get through it, he’s definitely the guy.”

And Chandler Jones: “It’s unfortunate, but if I know anyone who could beat something like this, it’s definitely him.”

SJSU’s sports information director Lawrence Fan was gracious enough to reach out to former Spartans coach Mike MacIntyre and provided this comment to me: “I’m confident that this is yet another obstacle that David will overcome. David has been an inspiration for me and I hope that I’m joined in daily prayer by all those whom David has also touched.”

Quessenberry is a fighter. He walked on at San Jose State and turned himself into a three-year starter at left tackle, a most important and grueling position. He broke his foot last year and had to spend his rookie season in the NFL on the injured reserve list. Those, of course, now pale in comparison to the fight he has ahead of himself. But he’s a guy who is willing to fight. The quotes from Quessenberry are featured in the above linked story so please do check that out.

There’s also some quotes in there from Quessenberry’s father, David Quessenberry Sr., who texted me back earlier today as well. Beyond what’s quoted in the story, the elder Quessenberry also said, “Thanks for thinking of us and for your prayers. David Lee (which is what his father refers to him as) says he can feel all the positive energy. Please keep them coming.”

Stories like these are never easy to report because these are people you know, like and respect. But the family is expressing confidence and the only thing to do now is have faith this will all have a happy ending. I know I, and all Spartan fans, are rooting for him. I’m glad I had the opportunity to tell him that today. For those that want to reach out to him, his Twitter account is a good place to start. Let him all know you’re thinking about him.